Abu Dhabi DoH partners with Sanofi and Abbot

It wasn't just Boehringer Ingelheim. During BIO International Convention in Boston USA, the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) has also signed deals with two other pharma and healthcare giant — Sanofi and Abbot — each for a different reason. Let's take a closer look at each of these partnerships.

Partnership with Sanofi

The collaboration with Sanofi aims to leverage Abu Dhabi's health-tech ecosystem and advanced research infrastructure to drive the development of new global vaccines and strengthen regional capabilities in vaccine manufacturing.

Both entities will work together to streamline regulatory processes, enhance manufacturing preparedness, and promote knowledge sharing between local and international experts. This partnership reflects Abu Dhabi's strategic goal to establish itself as a leading center for bio- and pharmaceutical innovation and underscores the Emirate's commitment to advancing proactive, technology-driven healthcare solutions.

In addition, both the Department and Sanofi will advance clinical research and development planning, optimize resource allocation and establish the foundational terms for funding and access. These efforts are designed to enhance healthcare resilience and sustainability across Abu Dhabi's healthcare sector and beyond, expanding access to quality care for patients locally and globally.

Partnership with Abbot

Abu Dhabi DoH also entered a landmark partnership with Abbot to localize the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals in Abu Dhabi and advance digital health solutions. Leveraging Abu Dhabi's advanced life sciences infrastructure, this milestone reflects the Emirate's proactive preparedness to reduce dependency on imports, strengthen supply chain resilience, and foster a sustainable, self-sufficient healthcare ecosystem.

The strategic collaboration outlines a comprehensive plan focusing on four key pillars, including localization of Abbott's pharmaceutical portfolio, biosimilar development, digital transformation through electronic patient information leaflets, and a robust education and workforce development initiative.

On the record

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the DoH, said. "DoH is partnering with Sanofi to expedite the development of new global vaccines. This initiative aims to shorten the timeline from early research to public availability by utilizing advanced technologies, real-time data analysis, and conducting parallel clinical trial phases. By combining Sanofi's global scientific expertise with Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art infrastructure, we set new benchmarks for resilience, innovation and international partnerships. Abu Dhabi offers a globally connected, purpose-driven environment for leading research, and together we will drive a transformative change that will safeguard the health and well-being of our community while contributing to global health security."

H.E. Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, said: "Following the recent launch of the Health, Endurance, Longevity and Medicine (HELM) Cluster in Abu Dhabi, the Emirate proved to be equipped with a holistic, integrated infrastructure that fosters local manufacturing and R&D, positioning it as a regional healthcare gateway and leader in life sciences. By integrating our strategic vision with Abbott's expertise, we aim to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative healthcare products and solutions, reducing time-to-market, improving healthcare outcomes, and ensuring that breakthrough therapies reach patients faster. This approach positions Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in fostering an agile, innovation-driven healthcare ecosystem that directly translates scientific advancements into tangible benefits for our community."

The context

Led by Abu Dhabi DoH, a high-level delegation has embarked on a strategic mission to the United States from June 15 to 21, 2025. The delegation will conduct over 20 strategic meetings and visits with public and private sector leaders across the U.S., aimed at knowledge exchange, investment opportunities, and the signing of new agreements that accelerate the adoption of advanced health solutions.